Evaluation of wind energy potential of the state of Tamil Nadu, India based on trend analysis

Abstract

An accurate estimate of wind resource assessment is essential for the identification of potential site for wind farm development. The hourly average wind speed measured at 50 m above ground level over a period of 39 years (1980-2018) from 25 locations in Tamil Nadu, India have been used in this study. The annual and seasonal wind speed trends are analyzed using linear and Mann-Kendall statistical methods. The annual energy yield, and net capacity factor are obtained for the chosen wind turbine with 2 Mega Watt rated power. As per the linear trend analysis, Chennai and Kanchipuram possess a significantly decreasing trend, while Nagercoil, Thoothukudi, and Tirunelveli show an increasing trend. Mann-Kendall trend analysis shows that cities located in the southern peninsula and in the vicinity of the coastal regions have significant potential for wind energy development. Moreover, a majority of the cities show an increasing trend in the autumn season due to the influence of the retreating monsoons which is accompanied with heavy winds. The mean wind follows an oscillating pattern throughout the year at all the locations. Based on the net annual energy output, Nagercoil, Thoothukudi and Nagapattinam are found to be the most suitable locations for wind power deployment in Tamil Nadu, followed by Cuddalore, Kumbakonam, Thanjavur and Tirunelveli.